“He came to high school a big kid. For a lineman, he’s not a big, sloppy kid; he’s well put together,” Hudson said. “He’s very athletic, which (is) real intriguing for someone that size.”

Cole is the fourth member of Michigan's 2014 class. He made his third trip to Ann Arbor last weekend and, having Midwest roots from living in Chicago when he was young, he knew what he wanted when he returned to Florida.

Hudson made it clear to Cole that if he was going to commit, it would be a final decision.

“I’m a firm believer in a commitment. I’m old-school,” he said. “When you commit, there are no soft commitments. And I had a conversation on (Michigan’s) end to make sure, in case he gets injured.”

Hudson caught some flak about Cole's commitment from his own college coach at Florida State, but he is “very excited for him.”

Michigan’s tradition of talented offensive linemen was a selling point, as were the campus and the coaching staff, Hudson said.

Cole's potential is massive, but his production already has made waves. He protected East Lake’s record-setting quarterback, Pete DiNovo, who broke Shaun King’s longstanding records in Pinellas County. East Lake plays in Class 8A, Florida's largest.

“Mason covered his blind side all those years,” Hudson said.

Cole possesses a nasty on-field demeanor. Officials began telling him and Hudson last season that he had to stop punishing defenders when the whistle blew.

With most players, Hudson would be facing the hard work now, making sure Cole stays focused during his senior year. But not in this case. Hudson said he had to tell Cole a few weeks ago to lay off his training because he was working too much, that his body needed an off-season.

“It’s a good problem to have,” Hudson said. “I’m glad I get to work with him. The Wolverine nation should be happy with this guy; he’s one terrific leader.”